While many Seattleites consider themselves veritable connoisseurs of the PNW beer world, this title cannot be truly claimed if you haven’t sipped your way across our neighboring city of Victoria. Generally considered the craft brew hub of Canada, BC’s capital city packs a whole lot of brew IQ into a walkable stretch of its bustling downtown core (which also removes the chore of drawing straws to appoint your group’s designated driver). Map out your sampling session with these eight must-visit Victoria breweries that are just a hop, skip and jump from the Inner Harbour.
1. Spinnakers
Hop on a cheerful yellow Harbour Taxi to cruise over to Spinnakers and enjoy a unique view of the city’s waterfront along the way. With patio seating overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbor and a beautifully appointed indoor space (complete with a pool table!), this local haunt is a worthy destination, rain or shine.
Sip on a crisp Blue Bridge Double Pale Ale, (Inside tip: be sure to keep your eye out for the ale’s namesake bridge during your cruise over), or try out their clean, fresh Departure Pilsner, a perfect summer sipper. To round out your visit, comb through the extensive, locally-sourced menu and pair your brews with beer-infused items such as the BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos or Beer & Cheese Pot.
2. Swans Brewery, Pub & Hotel
Centrally located in downtown Victoria on the corner of Wharf St. and Pandora Ave., Swans has been a beloved local watering hole for more than two decades. With its high ceilings, patio seating and old-school pub atmosphere, it’s no surprise that this brewery has stood the test of time. And let’s not forget about the beer! The spot offers a diverse tap list, giving you ample time to try out their unique Pitch Black Chamomile Pilsner – a surprisingly light, refreshing brew despite its dark chocolate-y color.
3. CRAFT Beer Market
Just a couple blocks to the north lies a newfound favorite with a little something for everyone. 110 taps, a private surf lounge, covered patio, outdoor fireplaces, games, and incredible views of the Harbour? Oh yea, add this one to your favorites list. Soak up a warm spring afternoon at the recently opened CRAFT Beer Market as you sip on a crisp Kolsch while picking the perfect appetizer to pair. Offering an extensive food menu with fresh and local ingredients complimenting their impressive tap list, kickback, relax and stay a while as you cheers to good vibes and great company.
4. Phillips Brewing and Malting Co.
Head north toward Discovery Street to pay a visit to the Phillips Brewing and Malting Co. tasting room. As the only craft brewer to malt their own barley in-house, the folks at Phillips take their dedication to producing phenomenal brews to the next level. Sip on playfully-named beers like their Electric Unicorn White IPA or their Blue Buck Ale. Can’t pick a favorite? Grab one of their variety packs as a souvenir!
5. Vancouver Island Brewing
Pop down the street to Vancouver Island Brewing, which boasts a freshly remodeled tasting room and Canada’s only Gruber growler filler (this means your souvenir beer will stay much fresher for much longer). Take a tour of their eco-friendly brewing facility or simply enjoy a frosty pint of their Victoria Lager.
6. Moon Under Water
Just up the road, by Victoria’s Upper Harbour, Moon Under Water serves up a selection of brews that combine traditional European brewing techniques with contemporary flavor profiles to create innovative hybrids. One such concoction, the Munich dark lager dubbed “Creepy Uncle Dunkel,” is a fine choice when you factor in its high scores on Beer Advocate.
7. Driftwood Brewing Company
Two blocks up the street, you’ll find the tucked away tasting room of Driftwood Brewing. If you’ve read a taproom or restaurant draft beer menu in Victoria, chances are you’ve heard of Driftwood’s Fat Tug IPA. This hop-heavy local favorite is just one of Driftwood’s seven-year-round brews, which they supplement with limited releases that focus on seasonality.
8. Hoyne Brewing Co.
Head around the corner to Bridge Street to pay a visit to Hoyne Brewing Co. – its entrance suitably marked with a “Fresh Beer Here” sign. With a diverse range of year-round brews, from a crisp Golden Lager to a rich Espresso Stout, alongside rotating seasonal offerings such as the Summer Haze Honey Hefe, you’re bound to find a beer to please your palate. Swing by their cozy tasting room for a flight of tasters, then load up on bottles to go once you’ve narrowed down your favorites.
Whether you are visiting for the day, or taking an extended trip, one thing’s for sure, on a trip to Victoria you won’t leave thirsty. Cheers!
Featured photo: Matthew Henry